Harold Johnson Nature Reserve

Harold Johnson Nature Reserve, Game Reserve in Zinkwazi Beach

Description

Harold Johnson Nature reserve was proclaimed in 1967 and is 100 hectares in extent. Set on the south bank of the Thukela River, the reserve is 6 km from the river mouth on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. Wildlife species which occur include zebra, bushbuck, impala, blue, red and grey duiker, vervet monkey, slender mongoose, white-tailed mongoose, banded mongoose and porcupine.

Birdlife is abundant with almost 200 recorded species. The reserve has an interesting variety of indigenous thornveld flora which attracts 114 recorded species of butterflies. There are also 7 km of nature walks, one of which, the "muthi" trail, provides an interesting insight into the medicinal uses of various plants used traditionally by the Zulu people. A booklet on this trail may be purchased at the office. The picnic site has a commanding view of the Thukela River. A cultural museum at the picnic site portrays the traditional dress and customs of the Zulu people. Included in the reserve are the national monuments of Fort Pearson and the Ultimatum Tree which commemorate the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. Accommodation: Two camp grounds are available with camping and limited caravanning facilities. Ablution blocks provide hot and cold water.

Harold Johnson Nature Reserve on the KwaZulu-Natal north coast, is a delight for the amateur naturalist, with fascinating flora and fauna a feature of its mere 100 hectares. This wonderful sanctuary is six kilometres from the Thugela river mouth on the south bank of the river. Wildlife species include zebra, bushbuck, impala, blue, red and grey duiker, vervet monkey, slender mongoose, white-tailed mongoose, banded mongoose and porcupine. The reserve has a bird list of almost 200 species and 114 species of butterflies. Two National Monuments, Fort Pearson and the Ultimatum Tree the site of the British ultimatum to the Zulu nation in 1879, which precipitated the Anglo Zulu War, are found in the reserve. Relaxing and walking are the main activities to enjoy in Harold Johnson, with seven kilometres of nature trails including the 'Muthi' trail, which gives interesting insight into the medicinal uses of various traditional plants used by the Zulu people. The camping and caravanning area has six shady sites, two of which can take caravans. The campsites share cold water taps and barbecue facilities. Only two caravan sites have plug points. The ablutions have hot and cold water, toilets, a bath and shower and a dishwashing basin.